Nicola Elliott recognised for outstanding contribution to Appleby with Inspiring Eden award

Nicola Elliott, Manager of Appleby Tourist Information Centre, has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to the local area with a prestigious Inspiring Eden award.

A limited number of awards have been produced by Eden District Council, to celebrate those individuals and organisations that make a significant difference in the district.

Chair of Eden District Council, Cllr Douglas Banks, said, "I was delighted to present the Inspiring Eden Award to Nicola as small token of our appreciation of her diligence and hard work."

Nicola started working in the tourism industry almost 20 years ago, after starting a family and moving back to Cumbria.

Alongside championing Appleby as a place to visit, the local Tourist Information Centre – of which Nicola manages - serves as a valuable community asset; acting as a front desk for both Council and non-Council issues, supporting and promoting local arts and culture and using its exhibition room to promote the work of local artists' work, as well as supporting local charities.

Nicola also works as part of the Platinum Playground group – a team of volunteers who run events and fundraising to rejuvenate the town playground. The group has raised over £25,000 to date, towards its target of £90,000.

In addition to her fundraising and management of the TIC, Nicola has also facilitated arts and culture projects for the town, including the Window Wanderland festival during the Coronavirus pandemic and the Tree Art Festival around the riverside walkway.

Her face is also well-known in local schools, working with them regularly, most recently as part of the town's Jubilee celebrations: running a 'design a Jubilee mug' competition for the children, a corgi hunt, flower festival and family events.

On receiving the award, Nicola said, "Thank you so much to Eden District Council for this wonderful award, it's nice to be appreciated and acknowledged in this way.

"I feel lucky to live and work in Appleby-in-Westmorland, it's such a pretty, historic and friendly place. I love my role promoting the town and the beautiful Eden Valley and supporting our local community."

Cllr Banks added, "Nicola has been a tireless advocate for the town of Appleby, its people and community groups, for many years. She's a familiar and friendly face in the Tourist Information Centre, which has become such an important hub for the local community, thanks to her efforts. The breadth of her activities and the support she gives to so many in Appleby is testament to her abilities and her commitment to the area.

"Put simply, it's people like Nicola, who bring communities together. She's a true inspiration and thoroughly deserving of this recognition."

To recognise excellence and innovation across the local economy, the Inspiring Eden award has been launched by Eden District Council, as part of its wider initiative of the same name.

A limited number of awards have been designed and produced, and are being awarded to a select list of organisations and individuals in Eden that demonstrate a strong commitment to achieving rural excellence within the local economy.